The different types of projects and actions to implement FP6 are also known as the instruments. One of them is the Network of Excellence (NoE).

NoEs are multipartner projects aimed at strengthening scientific and technological excellence on a particular research topic by integrating at European level the critical mass of resources and expertise needed to provide European leadership and to be a world force in a given domain.

This expertise will be networked around a joint programme of activities aimed primarily at creating a progressive and durable integration of research capacities of network partners while at the same time advancing knowledge on the topic.

Participating institutions have to invest seriously in structural change aiming at a durable integration of their research capacities. This requires the commitment of all levels of decision-making in an institution, including top management, supervising and financing bodies.

The main result should be a durable restructuring and reshaping of the way research is carried out in Europe in a given area.